WonderLab Preschool
Wisdom begins in wonder.
ExplorationWorks' WonderLab Preschool is a unique preschool nestled within the walls of our museum that caters to children ages 2 - 5. This enriching program includes is a blended combination of early STEM education and nature-based learning. Our supportive environment fosters independence and collaborative play to build confidence.
Key Features:
Small Class Sizes: With a 8:1 student-to-teacher ratio, we ensure personalized attention and support for each child.
Separate from Museum Operations: WonderLab Preschool maintains its own distinct space to create a dedicated learning environment.
Enrollment Information:
We are currently full but have space on the waiting list for open spots this coming fall. Click here to join the wait list.
Monthly Rates:
Monday - Friday: $1275
Monday, Wednesday, & Friday: $725
Tuesday & Thursday: $550
Families are encouraged to apply, and those eligible for Best Beginnings scholarships will be considered.
Questions? Please contact Shannon Thomas, shannont@explorationworks.org or 406.603.4132.
WonderLab FAQs
Can we go all year? WonderLab runs all through the summer!
Do siblings get a discount? We do not give a discount, but siblings will be given priority registration.
Where do students play outside? Students will use the outdoor classroom for daily recesses and lessons, they will also walk to Centennial park weekly.
Does my child need to be potty trained? We ask that your child is independently toileting (able to undress/dress and wipe) when they begin at WonderLab.
What curriculum are you using? We are using a curriculum called Blossom and Root along with Montessori materials. There will be a strong influence of STEM and nature studies in our daily routines.
How are kids split up? Students of all ages will be in one classroom together. This provides positive peer modeling and interactions. Teachers will give small group lessons to different skill groups.
Is there a resting/nap time? Yes, we schedule a resting a resting period after lunch. Nappers will have a quiet area to sleep as needed. Non-nappers will rest and be able to do quiet activities at their mat.
Are immunizations required for my child to attend? At WonderLab Preschool, the health and safety of our children, families, and staff are our top priority. As a private childcare provider, we do not accept religious exemptions for immunizations. We require all enrolled children to be fully immunized, ensuring the well-being of our entire community, especially those who are more vulnerable to preventable diseases.
Have more questions? No problem! Please reach out to us at WonderLab@explorationworks.org.
Meet the Team
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Shannon Thomas
WonderLab Director and Fundraising Specialist
Shannon is a native of Helena and has always loved it here. She graduated in 2007 from Carroll College with a degree in Elementary and Special Education. After graduation, Shannon worked for several years both in public school and private pre-school before stepping away from teaching. She is very excited to return to an educational environment!
Shannon loves to spend time reading, being in the sunshine and cheering for the Red Sox & Boston Bruins. She lives with her husband James, son Jackson and their cats, dogs and goldfish.
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Haley Manska
Early Childhood Lead Teacher
Haley Manska was born and raised in Helena, MT. She graduated from Helena High School in 2018, and immediately began working with children as a nanny. In her years after graduating she has traveled to Belgium, Italy and Norway to visit her family there. She had worked at Bloom Montessori since 2019, and continues to enjoy spending her time in the classroom setting. Haley now lives in Clancy, MT with her partner and step daughter. In her free time, she enjoys spending time with family and going camping. She has learned much over her years working with children and is very excited to be a part of the WonderLab team!
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Lauren Rivers
Early Childhood Lead Teacher
Lauren first came to Montana in 2009, searching for something to feed her soul. After teaching outdoor programs for several years, she discovered a parallel passion for informal science education. She joined the ExplorationWorks team in 2015, where she has piloted outdoor science programs, taught robotics classes, and started a club to empower girls to succeed in STEM fields.
Lauren recently spent a year as a forest preschool teacher, where she recognized a deep community need for STEM-focused early childhood education. She was thrilled to return to her ExplorationWorks family in 2024 to help launch the new WonderLab preschool.
When not flipping rocks in search of bugs or playing with messy science, Lauren can be found biking, camping or geocaching with her husband Andrew, their twin boys Ansel and Everett, and Seeley the adventure dog. She heartily dislikes celery and considers kite-flying to be a transcendent experience.
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Whitney Summers
Early Childhood Lead Teacher
Whitney grew up on a patch of heaven in Wyoming and has always had an affinity for all things earthy. As a child she was happiest digging in the dirt, going to museums and learning about the world around her. She was encouraged to always ask questions and due to that has an immense love of learning. Her hobbies include hiking, foraging, cooking, and creating various visual arts. She studied multiple art forms such as ceramics, digital art, and art history. When she isn’t collecting rocks, bones or snake shed skins, she’s in her garden tending to her herbs or painting among her chickens.